The Perfect G & T Recipe

Chill glass

Place the highball or copa glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or fill it with ice and water while you prepare other ingredients; discard water before building the drink.

Prepare ice and lime

If using large ice cubes or a sphere, ensure they are solid and dry. Cut the lime in half; reserve one half for a 1/2 lime wheel or wedge and the other half for optional additional squeeze or future use.

Build the drink

Add the large ice cubes to the chilled glass until it is 3/4 full. Measure 2 oz gin with the jigger and pour it over the ice.

Add tonic

Hold the bottle of chilled tonic close to the glass and gently pour 4 oz tonic over the back of a bar spoon (or down the side of the glass) to preserve carbonation and create a layered pour. Pour slowly until you reach the 4 oz mark.

Garnish and finish

Express the oils of a lime wheel or wedge by gently pinching its skin over the drink, then drop it into the glass. If using cucumber, thread 2 thin slices into the glass or rest on the rim. Optionally slap a rosemary or thyme sprig once between your palms to release aromatics and place it in the drink as a final garnish.

Serve

Serve immediately with a bar spoon for gentle stirring if the guest prefers a slightly more integrated drink. Encourage sipping to enjoy the tonic's effervescence.

Use the jigger to measure gin accurately. Use the bar spoon to pour tonic gently if you prefer a softer pour, and to stir once if desired. Use a peeler or paring knife to shave a thin lime twist or to trim cucumber slices for a neater garnish.